Robert A
October 7, 2026
Nice
Helpful
About East Maroon Portal Picnic Site
East Maroon Portal Picnic Site is situated next to Maroon Creek, offering spectacular views of towering red stone cliffs, lush wetlands and evergreen forests. The area is an excellent gathering spot for families, group gatherings and parties.
The picnic area is available for use by the general public, but can be reserved for private events. This is the only site available in the Maroon Bells Scenic Area for wedding receptions.
Seasonal information
2026
(Current year)
2026 Season availability
Current season
Upcoming seasons
Past seasons
Closed periods
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Currently closed
Campground Amenities
Most popular amenities
Picnic Table
River Access
Cooking and Fire
- Picnic Table
- Grill
Water Access
- River Access
Cabin Interior
- Toilet Type
Views and Setting
- View
Missing information?
Reviews
7 reviews
Summary
The reviewer was unable to use the East Maroon Portal Picnic Site due to a small fire located three miles away. They are seeking a refund but have not yet discovered the process for obtaining it.
Based on guest feedback
3.9
Overall rating
Based on 7 reviews
5 stars
71.4% (5)
4 stars
0.0% (0)
3 stars
0.0% (0)
2 stars
0.0% (0)
1 star
28.6% (2)
Showing 7 reviews
Sort by: Newest First
Coleen W
September 29, 2026
The East maroon portal is beautiful. We were able to enjoy a delicious steak dinner and a lovely fire as we watched the stars come out! Such a wonderful evening for us
Helpful
Yvonne P
July 18, 2026
We were denied use because of a small fire 3 mi away. I’d like a refund but haven’t found out how to do that.
Helpful
Dustin B
September 5, 2022
Hidden pond with 2 streams and benches just past the picnic are
Helpful
Jitendra M
October 5, 2020
Great location, beautiful maroon creek right next to picnic site, maroon creek trail starts here which can take you to Matoon lake in around 3.1 mi hike. Amazing place!
Helpful
Nicole O
August 23, 2020
i called 3 times, sent an email - all A WEEK BEFORE GOING TO GET REIMBURSED AND HAVE NEVER HEARD BACK!
Helpful
Sandi M
August 2, 2020
Wonderful evening at the Eat Maroon Creek Portal Picnic site!
Helpful
Location & Directions for East Maroon Portal Picnic Site
Aspen Sopris Ranger District Po Box 309, Carbondale, CO 81623 United States
Elevation: 2,664 ft
Getting There
From Independence Pass, take Highway 82 west from downtown Aspen for a mile to the roundabout. Take Maroon Creek Road 4.7 mi to the Maroon Bells Welcome Station; East Maroon Portal is 2 mi past the Welcome Station on the left.
From Glenwood Sprin...
From Independence Pass, take Highway 82 west from downtown Aspen for a mile to the roundabout. Take Maroon Creek Road 4.7 mi to the Maroon Bells Welcome Station; East Maroon Portal is 2 mi past the Welcome Station on the left.
From Glenwood Springs, take Highway 82 for 40 mi to the roundabout. Take Maroon Creek Road 4.7 mi to the Maroon Bells Welcome Station; East Maroon Portal is 2 mi past the Welcome Station on the left.
Highway access
The East Maroon Portal Picnic Site is accessible via Highway 82, which connects to Aspen and Glenwood Springs. Maroon Creek Road leads to the site from Highway 82.
Policies & Rules
Arrival & departure
Check in time
7AM
General
- Check in at Welcome Station, open from to confirm reservation for site.
- No drinking water available at this site. Pit toilets are available.
- Limited vehicle access to this site; shuttle bus service available
- This area provides access to the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area. Camping overnight in some areas of this wilderness requires a permit. You must also have proper bear-proof food storage and a plan for human waste in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness.
- Independence Pass (Highway 82) is normally open from Memorial Day through mid-October, weather dependent; call the (877) 315-7623 for road updates.
- Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing organisms by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.
- Click here for more information about White River National Forest
Nearby Campgrounds
Nearby destinations
Last updated: October 7, 2026
Need help?
Our team is here to help you find the perfect spot for your next adventure.
Message us
Replies within minutes
Explore Carbondale, CO
Population: 6,637
Nearby city: Grand Junction, CO
Approx. 89 mi away (straight-line distance)
Elevation: 6,181 ft
Carbondale, CO
Weather & Conditions
Loading destination weather
From our Travel Guides
Managed by the USDA Forest Service